WEST BARNSTABLE – The offshore wind industry has been a frequent topic of discussion in coastal Massachusetts communities over the past few years. From the potential benefits of the industry to possible environmental impacts, offshore wind will have an impact on every city, town, and community with a Blue Economy.
The Sierra Club and 350 Cape Cod are inviting area residents, businesses, and officials to a forum at Cape Cod Community College on Tuesday regarding the potential benefits of Vineyard Wind and other offshore wind projects.
In May, Vineyard Wind was selected by Governor Charlie Baker to build the state’s first offshore wind farm south of Martha’s Vineyard.
The forum, entitled “Localizing Benefits from Offshore Wind: Energy, Economy & Environment” is expected to feature an expert panel to discuss the local opportunities and issues that come with offshore wind.
“The intent of the forum is to pull out a broader understanding of the potential benefits that will occur from the development of the Vineyard Wind project and future projects off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard,” said event co-organizer Chris Powicki. “There’s been some local discussion of concerns about possible environmental impacts, but there really is a wealth of benefits that are available if we embrace this project.”
Panelists include Chris Adams of the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, Richard Andre and Nate Mayo from Vineyard Power, Don Keenan from the Association to Preserve Cape Cod, and Powicki.
“Cape Cod Community College is uniquely situated to respond to the workforce needs of our region’s growing Blue Economy, and we are excited at the opportunity offshore wind presents,” said College President John Cox. “Our students come to 4C’s looking for education that they can put to work locally. Energy and offshore wind training perfectly align with this need.”
The forum is free and open to the public, running from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 1 in the College’s Tilden Auditorium.
By TIM DUNN, CapeCod.com News Center
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